Armyworms

There are several armyworm species commonly found in southern Australia. They are difficult to distinguish apart. Armyworm caterpillars of all species grow up to 40 mm in length and usually have smooth bodies with fine hairs. Body colour can vary, but larvae are generally green, brown or yellow with three parallel white longitudinal stripes running from the 'collar' behind the head, along the body to the tail end. Adult moths are grey-brown in colour and have a stout body with a wingspan of approximately 40-45 mm. Barley is most susceptible to armyworms, although they will also attack wheat, oats, triticale and pasture.